Celtics Continue With Net Gains

The Celtics picked up their third win in a row last night with a 118-86 blowout of the New Jersey Nets at the Garden last night.

Bill Doyle has Paul Pierce powering the Celtics to a dominant win over New Jersey. Frank Dell’Apa has a huge third period the key for the Celtics. Jim Fenton looks at a huge third quarter from Pierce, who hit five three-pointers in the period. Lenny Megliola says that the 27-2 Celtics reappeared for last night’s game. Jeff Howe says that the Atlantic Division is no match for the Celtics. Robert Lee says that the Celtics were in control from the get-go in this one. Mark Murphy has the Celtics making it look easy last night.

Mike Fine points out that the Celtics schedule from here on out will allow for more rest and more practice time. Steve Bulpett has the Celtics improving their play and outlook for the rest of the season. Two of the best point guards in the East squared off last night in Rajon Rondo and Devin Harris. Paul Flannery has a look at the two dynamic youngsters. Jessica Camerato has J.R. Giddens waiting for his shot. Bulpett has Sam Cassell itching to play this season.

Marc J. Spears has a mini-feature on Yi Jianlian, who could end up an Eastern Conference starter, thanks to votes from China.

Doyle’s notebookhas Brian Scalabrine filling in at center again for Kendrick Perkins. Lee’s notebook says that the Celtics will get more practice time in the second half of the season. Dell’Apa’s notebook has Eddie House spraining his ankle late in the game, but saying that he’ll be OK. Murphy’s notebook has Perkins hoping to play against Shaq on Monday.

Red Sox

Jon Couture catches up with Lars Anderson – the only power hitting Red Sox prospect on the horizon. Jeff Goldberg says that Anderson’s time is near. John Tomase also checks in with Anderson. Joe McDonald has the Red Sox prospects getting instruction from Cam Neely in this winter camp. Rob Bradford looks at how John Smoltz sold the Red Sox on himself.

Daniel Barbarisi has AA catcher Mark Wagner hoping to prove that he’s the future of the position for the Red Sox. Paul Jarvey has more Red Sox prospects eager for their shot to come. Amalie Benjamin has Daniel Bard making a huge turnaround in 2008, which could get him in the majors this year.

Patriots

Mike Reiss says that Nick Caserio should be able to step right into his new role in the front office. Michael Felger has his latest mailbag. Bill Burt has a look at John Carroll University, who had alums Josh McDaniels and Nick Caserio get big promotions this week.

Ron Borges has long time Bengal Willie Anderson getting a taste of this first AFC title game this Sunday with the Ravens. Borges’ notebook has Trevor Pryce saying that Rex Ryan will make a great head coach.

Bruins/Misc

Mike Loftus says that despite not making it onto the scoresheet Tuesday night, Marc Savard had a good game against the Canadiens. Mark Divver has a look at the rise of David Krejci from low draft pick to highly regarded prospect. Fluto Shinzawa says that Aaron Ward will miss at least the next two games. Stephen Harris has the Bruins just trying to heal up.

He was ‘close to’ several years ago. Now, he’s right there with them and all the others. Starlight, Starbright, here’s what I wish tonight: That 2009 evaporates as many of these useless sports media hacks as possible.